I understand that you are wondering if you are depressed. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a mood disorder characterized by feelings of sadness or despair lasting at least two weeks that impair daily functioning. Those with depression usually experience a number of cognitive, behavioral, emotional, and/or physical symptoms, such as feelings of hopelessness, change in sleep or eating, loss of interest in once pleasurable activities, and difficulty concentrating, to name a few. Some people with depression may also experience thoughts of suicide. It is not possible to reliably diagnose a disorder without a clinical interview. You can see a psychologist or a psychiatrist for a diagnosis. If you are experiencing thoughts of harming yourself or others, you can go to your local emergency room to get immediate help. Evidence suggests that there are effective treatments for depression, including therapy in combination with anti-depressant medication.
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